Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York
executor first step
I had a neighbor who has no relatives and became very ill. I helped her with her will in which I was named the sole beneficiary and the executor. She was in a nursing home and took a turn for the worse.She died on 7- 10- 05.There is a bank account with $2100.00 and an apartment that needs to be cleaned out.There is nothing of any value.I want to call a good will organization to donate the belongings and pay a rubbish removal company to take whatever remains.I do not plan to profit from any action,I was named beneficiary as she has no one else.What is the first step I must take as executor? Thank you for your help.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: executor first step
First you must determine her approximate total assets. If her total assets were less than $20,000, then you can proceed to voluntary administration.
However, if her assets were greater than $20,000 or if she owned real property (i.e., her apartment), then you must complete the full probate process.
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